Opportunities for aeronautical engineers are increasing after several years of uncertainty. This uncertainty was caused by Air New Zealand plans to shift most of its aircraft servicing division overseas, which would have meant laying off a number of staff. However, these plans did not eventuate. 

Global aviation industry predicted to grow by 5% to 10% each year

Predictions are for an annual average growth of between 5% and 10% in the global aviation industry, in line with increased passenger numbers. If that growth occurs in New Zealand, it is estimated that more than 350 new aircraft engineers and aeronautical engineers will be needed annually. About 120 graduated in 2006-07.

In recognition of this, Air New Zealand – the major employer of aeronautical engineers – is looking to employ 100 trainee engineers by 2010, at its two bases in Auckland and Christchurch. The company has been actively recruiting qualified engineers from overseas to fill some vacancies at its engineering bases because of the shortage of New Zealanders trained to do the work.

Other employers also report they are expanding, but are having trouble finding staff.

Growing number of aeronautical engineers

Census figures show that the number of aeronautical engineers/surveyors grew between 1996 and 2006.
 

Number of aeronautical engineers/surveyors in New Zealand
(1996, 2001, 2006)

Census	Number of aeronautical engineers/surveyors
1996	2,019
2001	2,160
2006	2,250
Source: Department of Labour, Jobs and Tertiary Education Indicator Tool.

Most aeronautical engineers are employed by Air New Zealand Engineering. Other employers include:

• smaller airline and helicopter companies
• maintenance and aircraft design firms
• the Royal NZ Air Force.

Aeronautical engineers work throughout New Zealand, but most work at one of Air New Zealand's two engineering bases in Auckland and Christchurch. About 50% of the total workforce is based in Auckland and about 20% in Christchurch.

Other regions with a significant aviation industry are Marlborough and Waikato, which each have 5% of  the aeronautical engineering workforce.